From Merger to Mayhem: How a Print Shop Unmerged and Came Out Stronger| 918 Design Co.

What happens when a dream merger turns into a business nightmare? In this episode of the Print Hustlers Podcast, Leeah Calvert of 918 Design Co. shares her incredible story of merging with another print shop — only to discover that their CFO wasn't telling the full story! Leeah walks us through how the deal came together, what went wrong, and the exact red flags she missed. This candid conversation is full of valuable lessons for any print shop owner considering a merger, acquisition, or growth move. From legal oversights to co-mingled funds and walking away with both companies — this is an episode you don’t want to miss. 📍 Based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, 918 Design Co. now operates stronger than ever, and Leeah’s transparency will help you avoid costly mistakes in your own journey. 🔗 Timestamps below | 💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments | 📩 For questions, reach out to Leeah directly: Lkcalvert@918designcompany.com Sponsors: GraphxSource: https://www.graphxsource.com/ Use PRINTAVOPOD for 50% off your first order Easiway: https://www.easiway.com/ Multicraft: https://www.multicraftink.com/ Mention Printavo and get 10% off your first order! Print Profit: https://www.printprofit.com/ Stahls: https://www.stahls.com/ - Use code HUSTLER20 for 20% off your first order! 00:00 – Intro 05:48 – 918 Design Co’s background and business model 09:00 – Becoming a better leader by letting go 12:00 – Finding the right production manager 13:00 – Why Leeah decided to merge 17:00 – The red flags she ignored 24:00 – Discovering the TRUTH 26:00 – Walking away from the deal and getting both companies 30:00 – Rebuilding everything in 7 weeks 36:00 – Lessons learned on due diligence 44:00 – Bruce & Steven’s merger checklist 50:00 – Where Leeah’s business stands today 54:00 – Final thoughts + how to contact Leeah Bruce Ackerman https://www.instagram.com/webmasterbruce https://twitter.com/webmasterbruce Steven Farag https://twitter.com/stevenfarag https://www.instagram.com/steven.ink_ TRY PRINTAVO TODAY! : https://bit.ly/4729qBa Check out a live demo: https://www.inktavo.com/tools-resources/printavo-recorded-demo/?utm_campaign=Schedule%20a%20Demo&utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_content=YT%20Printavo%20Default%20Description Printavo for iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/printavo/id1191027240 Printavo for Android: https://play.google.com/store/search?q=printavo&c=apps Follow us on Instagram for all of the latest updates: https://www.instagram.com/printavo Check out the Printavo Blog! : https://www.printavo.com/blog/ #screenprinting #printlife #printhustlers #printavo #screenprintlife #dtg #embroidery #merch #ecommerce #printshop #screenprint Subscribe to the Printavo channel for more amazing interviews, shop tours, and tips for your screen printing business.